Be Summer-Ready Preparing you, your home and your business for summer
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Coronavirus Covid-19 This booklet is produced under government COVID-19 guidance. Please see www.gov.ie/covid19 for up to date information.
Contents Introduction 3 Weather Conditions 4 Water Safety 7 Be Water Smart 14 Coastal and Water Based Activities 16 Travelling Abroad 18 Road Safety 21 Be Firewise 25 Military Ranges 28 Health Preparedness 29 People with Disabilities 31 The Workplace 33 You and Your Farm 35 Schools 37 Contact Information 38 Important Phone Numbers 46
Introduction This booklet is part of the Government Information on being prepared and of Ireland initiative to provide information staying safe during these summer months, to the general public on issues which may for the individual, family, home, farm, affect them during summer months in business and school, is contained in this Ireland. Please bear in mind all relevant booklet and in the links/web addresses and Public Health advice and do not forget phone numbers contained herein. We advise that all travel should be considered in people to familiarise themselves with the line with current Government guidelines. information in this booklet. For up to date information please see www.gov.ie/covid19 The booklet is published by the Office of Emergency Planning, Department of During the summer months, Ireland’s Defence on behalf of the Government waterways and beaches become very Task Force on Emergency Planning. popular. More people visit the countryside, engage in outdoor pursuits, visit family There is more information, including an farms or take holidays. With these activities audio version of this booklet, and useful there are associated risks and this booklet links on our website, www.gov.ie/ provides information on them. summerready Sadly, summer months can also bring Tá leagan Gaeilge den leabhrán seo tragedy, in the form of drowning ar fáil freisin. accidents, farm accidents, accidents on our roads, or where people succumb to summer-related illnesses. Wildfires are also a more common occurrence during this period. 3
Weather Conditions WEATHER FORECASTS AND WARNINGS Met Éireann’s weather forecasts and warnings are available on www.met.ie/ forecasts/national-forecast and on the Met Éireann App. Detailed 7 day forecasts for over 1,000 named locations around Ireland are available. Additionally, the website and App has an optional feature that uses GPS location data to provide a 7 day detailed forecast for that exact location. WEATHER WARNING ALERTING SERVICES Push notifications of Weather Warnings are now available on the Met Éireann In the northern hemisphere, App. Tap Menu/My Warnings/Add. You meteorological summer is defined can set up notifications for any county by the World Meteorological and warning type. You can also sign up to receive emails of Weather Warnings on Organisation as the three www.met.ie/warnings/login warmest months which are June, July and August. However, UV/SUNBURN the three months with the most The Ultra Violet Index (UVI) gives an sunlight are May, June and July. indication of the potential for skin damage. When the UVI is 3 or above you need to protect your skin. In Ireland, the UVI is usually 3 or above from April to September, even when it is cloudy. Plan your day to limit time in the sun when UV is strongest, typically between the hours of 11am and 3pm. 4
Plan ahead and check the UV levels near you at the Met Éireann website at www.met.ie/uv-index WIND AND WAVES In the event of strong winds, high, potentially dangerous, waves can occur on lakes as well as along coasts. Even in light winds or calm conditions high waves (swell) can affect coasts/beaches. Winds can exceed general warning thresholds in exposed areas such as coasts and high ground and also in some low lying areas due to funneling effects. A storm is named by a National Met Service when Orange or Red level winds are forecast to impact over a wide land area. THUNDERSTORMS In the event of thunderstorms, be aware of the dangers of lightning and do not take shelter under an umbrella or a tree. If it is cloudy everywhere then the UVI is It is dangerous to be out on open water. low to moderate (3 to 4) but sun burning Be careful of landline phones or any can still occur. metal that connects with the ground. Lightning can strike the same spot twice. Cloud can be variable from place to place Sudden heavy downpours can lead to and from time to time in Ireland and due to flash flooding and poor visibility. They can wind chill it can often feel cool in summer. be accompanied by dangerous squally Nonetheless, a 20 minute sunny interval winds and potentially damaging hail. can cause sunburn. Protect yourself and children by being SunSmart as part of your daily routine from April - September. Plan ahead and check the UV levels near you at the Met Éireann website at www.met.ie/uv-index 5
POLLEN FORECASTS Met Éireann issue pollen forecasts (low/ Tree medium/high) from March to October Grass (updated from April to September in 2021). There are four main types Fungal spores of pollen: Weed Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Hazel Alder Cypress & Yew Elm Ash Willow Birch Maple & Sycamore Oak Beech Horse Chestnut Pine Plane Tree Dock & Sorrel Grasses Plantain Nettle & Pelitory Goosefoots Sweet Chestnut Lime Mugwort High Allergenicity Medium Allergenicity Low/Absent Allergenicity Main Flowering Period (10-90%) Main Flowering Period (10-90%) Main Flowering Period (10-90%) Early / Late Flowering Period (0.5-99.5%) Early / Late Flowering Period (0.5-99.5%) Early / Late Flowering Period (0.5-99.5%) Possible Occurrence Possible Occurrence Possible Occurrence 6
Water Safety WATER SAFETY TIPS Learn to swim and learn lifesaving Swim at designated, lifeguarded skills (including CPR). waterways and beaches, between the Instructions are available from flags, where possible. Stay within approved training providers. For more your depth. information see www.safetyzone.ie Follow all orders from lifeguards, When entering an aquatic environment and pay attention to all signs. ensure you are experienced or you are Ask locals and lifeguards for advice with somebody who is experienced. about hazards and dangers in Inform others on shore of your plans unfamiliar aquatic settings. and time of return. Always wear a personal flotation Note the location of the nearest device/lifejacket when boating ring buoy in case of emergency. or angling and ensure that it has When engaging in aquatic activities, correctly fitting straps. do not drink beforehand. Wear suitable clothing such as a wet suit or warm water-proof clothing. 7
BE SUMMER-READY WATER SAFETY TIPS Shore and beach walkers should stay away from the edge and be vigilant to the dangers of stranding by incoming tides. Always carry a mobile phone, and in an emergency ring 112 or 999 – ask to speak to the Coast Guard. Check the weather forecast and time of tides before going into or near water. Never enter the water at night or when darkness is approaching. Do not use inflatable toys in open water or swim out after anything drifting. 8
SAFE SWIMMING COLD WATER IMMERSION/SHOCK Swim at designated bathing areas where When cold water makes contact with lifeguards are on duty. See listings at your skin, the cold shock response causes www.watersafety.ie an immediate loss of breathing control, possible dizziness and panic. This dramatically If there are no designated bathing increases the risk of sudden drowning even if areas near you, then swim at known the water is calm and you know how to swim. safe traditional bathing areas where there For those who survive this, but are unable are ringbuoys erected. Always ensure that to get out of the water, progressive body the ringbuoy is in its yellow box before cooling leads to hypothermia and muscle entering the water. Make sure that the cooling, making swimming more difficult edges are shallow shelving so that you or impossible. Children cool even faster can safely and easily enter and exit than adults. the water: If you fall in to cold water avoid swimming, Know the tides and be conscious stay calm and relax. Float or tread water of currents. and get as much of your body out of the Never jump or dive in case of water as possible. To lessen heat escape hidden hazards. keep your legs together and elbows by your side. Stay within your depth and swim parallel to shore. Never put pressure on others HYPOTHERMIA to take risks. Coastal walks present a high risk of stranding Learn to use equipment before as people may become trapped by incoming trying it out. tides. Avoid walking on sandbanks and keep Enter cool water slowly allowing children at a safe distance from the edges your body to acclimatise. of rivers, canals and inland waterways. Water temperatures can be cold, which puts To escape a rip current sweeping people at risk of cold shock and hypothermia you out to sea, remain calm and if suddenly immersed. swim parallel to shore until free. Never swim when you are hot or tired. Don’t swim in quarries, ESB reservoirs and tailraces. For more information about symptoms, prevention and follow up hypothermia techniques go to www.watersafety.ie 9
Report missing ringbuoys to your Local Authority or Harbour Master. HOW TO USE A RINGBUOY Stand back from the shore edge and establish voice contact with the person, shouting ‘Kick your legs!’. Look for the nearest ringbuoy (yellow box). Secure the end of the rope or hold it in your hand. Holding the ringbuoy, swing back, then release forward with an under- arm throw, shouting: ‘Ringbuoy! Ringbuoy! Ringbuoy!’. Aim to land the ringbuoy beyond the person, so the ringbuoy can be pulled into their grasp. Instruct the person to hold the ringbuoy. Slowly pull them to land, reassuring them. Get others to help you, if available. For information on open water swimming visit: www.watersafety.ie/ open-water-swimming 10
Remember: Green water is mean; white water is nice. RIP CURRENTS Rips are strong currents that start near the shore and rush out seaward, quickly taking Rip currents are often not readily or easily you out of your comfort zone, from the identifiable to the average beachgoer. shallows to deeper water. Rip currents are Polarized sunglasses make it easier to see the leading surf hazard for all beachgoers. the rip currents. Ask a lifeguard for advice. They are particularly dangerous for weak or non-swimmers. Rip currents most Tips for surviving a rip current: typically form at low spots or breaks in sandbars, and also near structures such If caught in a rip current, remain calm as groynes, jetties and piers. to conserve energy and think clearly. Do not try to swim against the current. How to identify rip currents: Swim out of the current in a direction A channel of churning, choppy, following the shoreline. When out green, deeper water. of the current, swim towards shore. An area having a notable difference If you are unable to swim out of in water colour, normally dark green the rip current, float or calmly tread or blue in sunshine. water. When out of the current, swim towards shore. A line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving steadily seaward. If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by facing A break in the incoming wave. the shore and calling for help. If you see someone in trouble, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 999 or 112. Throw the rip current victim something that floats and yell instructions on how to escape. Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current. 11
BE SUMMER-READY Always wear a Lifejacket on or near water. WATER SAFETY IN AND AROUND THE HOME Each year, children die in drowning accidents in or near their home. Children are most at risk because they feel that their house is safe but there are many dangers. Remember drowning can occur in very shallow water, in such places as: Streams. Drains at the end of a garden. Fish or garden ponds. Play pools or swimming pools. Wells. Barrels or water tanks. WATER QUALITY Septic tanks or slurry pits. Bathers should check the EPA’s bathing water website www.beaches.ie to find out which beaches have safe water quality. The website shares the latest information on over 200 bathing waters sampled by local authorities during the bathing water season, which runs from 1st June to 15th September. Information on weather, tides and amenities are also available. Water Safety Information is translated into Irish, Belarusian, Chinese, Czech, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Romanian and Slovakian. See www.watersafety.ie Always supervise children near water. 12
You cannot tell the depth of a hole if it is full of water. Know the dangers around the home: Adults should fence off any rivers, Rain barrels, water tanks, wells and streams or drains running near fish ponds should be covered with the home. wire mesh or metal grids. An adult should always supervise Ensure pets are adequately catered playtime in paddling pools. for during warm weather. Paddling pools should be emptied Learn how to help: straight away after use. Holes or drains left exposed after If you see someone in difficulty dial 999 building work should be closed. or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. Private swimming pools should be You, your family and your friends fenced in. can learn water safety, swimming, lifesaving and rescue skills at Swimming pools should have covers www.watersafety.ie that can be firmly secured. If your home is on a farm, keep away from slurry pits. 13
Be Water Smart IN THE BATHROOM Have a shower instead of a bath. Showers use only half the amount of water required for a bath. Spend less time in the shower. An average shower uses 10 litres of water per minute, so taking a shorter shower will save water. Remember to turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. A running tap can use up to six litres of water per minute. IN THE KITCHEN Make sure your washing machine and dishwasher are always fully loaded All year round, but especially before putting on a wash in summer, we should all be to save water and money mindful of the amount of on energy bills. water we use, and try to Use a basin in the sink. A basin is useful use only what we need. for washing dishes by hand or collecting the water you use to rinse fruit and vegetables, which can then be used for watering plants. Keep a jug of water in the fridge. Waiting for a tap to run cold water to drink can waste more than 10 litres of water in a day. 14
IN THE GARDEN Use a rose head watering can in the garden and a bucket and sponge to wash your car. A hose uses more water in one hour than the average family uses in a day. Water your plants in the early morning or late evening. This saves water evaporating and avoids scorching your plants too. Add layers of plant material, like bark or straw, to your garden soil to help it retain more water. THE STORY OF WATER For more general information on the critical value of our most precious natural resource see The Story of Water documentary at www.water.ie/storyofwater It presents a unique perspective on the ongoing national There are cheaper alternatives too. project to upgrade the country’s drinking You can retrofit a dual flush system into water supply and wastewater treatment. older toilets or invest in toilet cistern bags. Businesses with showers may also wish to FOR BUSINESS invest in shower timers. You can consider upgrading to more Businesses can get involved in Irish water efficient appliances. For example Water’s Water Stewardship Programme, water efficient taps, shower heads, toilets, which includes taking the Water Conservation and dishwashers can make a big difference. Pledge, carrying out free Online Water Choosing to implement waterless processes Conservation Training and enrolling can dramatically reduce your company’s to become a Certified Water Steward. water footprint. This can include air-vacuums, Find out more on the Business Water high pressure air jets, and dry sweeping. Conservation Hub at www.water.ie 15
Coastal and Water Based Activities The Coast Guard has overall Before considering any water-based or coastal activity during the summer responsibility for coordinating months, the Coast Guard recommends Search and Rescue at sea, that you first ‘PAUSE’. on Ireland’s coast and on Plan your activity carefully, detail where designated inland waterways. you are going and how, what clothing The Coast Guard also assists (or PPE) may be required to stay protected from the sun, from the water and for any with inland search and rescue sudden change in weather, and who you and provides a 24/7 service. will inform of your intentions (e.g. Where you’re going, Who you’re with and When you’re due to return). Always bring a means of effectively Coast Guard services can be contacted by: communicating your distress, sufficient drinking water and the correct Dialling 112/999 and asking for the equipment for the activity you’re considering. Coast Guard. Know how to use your equipment in an Marine VHF radio - Channel 16. emergency and always wear a Personal Flotation Device/Lifejacket when near Activating a Personal Locator Beacon or on the water. (PLB) or Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). Use readily available sources of information All those planning to go to sea on any to check the environmental conditions craft are urged to always wear a suitable (weather and tides) in advance of your trip. Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or Lifejacket and to a carry marine VHF Seek help immediately if you or someone equipment as the primary means of you observe is possibly in difficulty by distress and safety communication. In calling 999/112 or using VHF Radio - addition, the carriage of an EPIRB and/or Ch: 16 and asking for the Coast Guard. PLB as a secondary means of distress Enjoy Ireland’s wonderful outdoors safely alerting is strongly advised. Mobile and act responsibly. telephones should NOT be considered as a suitable substitute. 16
If you see somebody in trouble or think they are in trouble on the water or along the coast; Dial 112/999 or use Marine VHF radio - Ch 16 and ask for the Coast Guard. 17
Travelling Abroad BEFORE YOU GO CHECK TRAVEL ADVICE FOR YOUR DESTINATION Public Health Advice: When making decisions about international travel, you Travel Planning: should consider your overall health, vaccine status, and the public health Visit our country-specific travel situation in other countries. If you contract advice for over 200 countries when COVID-19 when abroad, you may face planning your trip for the most delays and additional costs before up-to-date information: www.dfa.ie/ returning to Ireland. You should also be travel/travel-advice/ aware that COVID-19 restrictions are Follow us on Twitter @DFATravelWise subject to change at short notice. Read our Know Before You Go for helpful top tips on local laws & customs, safety and security, and more: www.dfa.ie/travel/know- before-you-go/ Be prepared – register your details with us and we can contact you, and provide assistance, if necessary and possible, if there is an unforeseen crisis such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or if you have a family emergency while you are overseas: Citizens’ Registration - Department of Foreign Affairs (dfa.ie) Read our General Travel Advisory for If you have any urgent queries, you the latest information https://www. can contact the Travel Advice team at: dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/ traveladvice@dfa.ie coronavirus/general-covid-19- travel-advisory/ and contact us with any queries on traveladvice@dfa.ie 18
For more information on taking out comprehensive travel insurance, please visit our website: www.dfa.ie/travel/know-before-you-go/travel-insurance-and-health/ GET COMPREHENSIVE IS YOUR PASSPORT IN DATE? TRAVEL INSURANCE Before you book: check that you and We strongly recommend you take out your family’s passports are in date. comprehensive travel insurance, which can If you are renewing or applying for the save you and your family a lot of money if first time, the Passport Online is the something goes wrong. It will also ensure easy route to get your passport. Easy that you get the medical attention you to use, it will help you check your need, when you need it. Hospital bills can documents and photo are correct quickly run into thousands of euro, and a and you’ll also be able to track your medical evacuation back to Ireland can application from start to delivery cost thousands more. Passport Card: You can also use As an Irish resident you are entitled to Passport Online to apply for a Passport get healthcare through the public system Card, which can be used for travel to in countries of the European Union 31 countries in the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) or (EU) and European Economic Area Switzerland if you are ill or injured while (EEA) plus Switzerland. on a temporary stay there. Ensure that For more info go to you get or renew your EHIC (the new www.dfa.ie/passports/ name for the E111) before you go, and remember, you need one for every person travelling in your group. 19
EMERGENCY CONSULAR ASSISTANCE ABROAD We provide a range of help and support to If you are in Ireland and calling on behalf of citizens in distress abroad. 24/7 emergency a family member or loved one abroad, the consular assistance is available through Consular Assistance Unit can be contacted our Embassies and Consulates and through on +353 (0)1 4082527 during office hours the Consular Assistance Unit in Dublin. or out of hours on +353 (0)1 4082000, Assistance is provided within the remit in the event of a genuine emergency. of our Consular Assistance Charter - Alternatively, you can send us your query Department of Foreign Affairs (dfa.ie) in writing here: Consular Assistance Contact Form - Department of Foreign If you experience difficulty while abroad Affairs (dfa.ie) and require consular assistance, the relevant Embassy or Consulate can be We recommend that all citizens travelling contacted at: www.dfa.ie/embassies/ abroad register with their local Embassy irish-embassies-abroad/ or Consulate: Citizens’ Registration - Department of Foreign Affairs (dfa.ie). This information will allow us to contact you in the event of a crisis or emergency in that location. Please note that you should only ring out of hours or use Consular Directorate’s emergency assistance phone number in the event of a genuine emergency. 20
Road Safety SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVING IN SUMMER Journeys should only be taken in line with All road users must also be aware of the current Government travel guidelines. dangers of alcohol during the summer months too - never ever drink and drive, Despite popular opinion, summertime is and always be aware of the dangers the the most dangerous time of the year on next morning. Alcohol is a factor in 38% our roads. In the summer, when there are of fatal crashes. no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days brighter, we relax our guard. At this time of year, there will also be an increase in the number of agricultural Unfortunately, there is a spike in pedestrian, vehicles using the road. cyclist and motorcyclist casualties over the summer. The fine weather brings more people out and about. As drivers, we need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected. 21
If stuck behind a tractor, be patient and Be particularly careful when transporting don’t be tempted into any foolish or rash material such as silage, slurry, sand and overtaking as the tractor might turn suddenly gravel and ensure that the load is into a hidden entrance up ahead. Always covered with the appropriate covering be on the look-out for farm machinery such as tarpaulin or netting so that the leaving fields and farm yards. load does not spill or blow onto the road or onto following traffic posing Farmers need to be safety conscious too. a road safety risk. If the traffic is building up behind, keep left where safe to allow others pass safely. The driving mirrors must always provide Drivers of agricultural vehicles are also an adequate view of the road behind reminded to be mindful of the following: and all agricultural vehicles must have proper working brakes on both tractor Wash down wheels regularly to avoid and trailer units. All agricultural vehicles carrying mud and stones onto the must be fitted with working lights, public road. reflectors and indicators. Look out for low bridges, overhanging Not to load/overload trailers so as to trees, overhead cables and uneven cause them to be unstable on the road. road surfaces which could cause the Do not carry a passenger unless the load to shift and possibly overturn. tractor is equipped to carry one. 22
Large farming vehicles should consider Ensure the category of licence you using an escort vehicle to warn other hold is appropriate and valid for the road users and ensure that tractors are size and weight of the motorhome you driven at an appropriate speed plan to drive – The RSA has produced for the road conditions. a handy booklet and a series of short Motorists towing a caravan or driving videos which provide lots of useful a motorhome need to have adequate information on towing trailers legally unobstructed vision in both car door / wing and safely. Visit www.rsa.ie for mirrors. Fit extension mirrors if necessary. more details. Reversing a caravan is difficult. Practise reversing, but make sure it’s done in a safe location and have someone to guide you. It’s essential that your motorhome or caravan is roadworthy. If planning to use a motorhome, check that it has a valid CVRT certificate. REMEMBER Children can be carried in rear seats in a motorhome provided they are using Both a caravan and a trailer will affect the proper child restraint that is how your car performs and how well suitable for their height and weight. you can control it. In particular, towing a caravan increases the amount of fuel Passengers can sit in the back of a your car uses and decreases its ability motorhome provided they are in a seat to accelerate and brake. which is designed to be used while the vehicle is moving. 23
BE SUMMER-READY IS YOUR VEHICLE SUMMER-READY? You should ensure your vehicle is Windscreen wipers - you should clean maintained in a roadworthy condition them regularly and replace them every with a full service being undertaken every 12 months. 10,000 – 15,000 kilometres. There are Tyres - Check your tyre treads also some things you can do yourself: and pressure, including the spare. Lights - Make sure all your indicators The minimum legal limit is 1.6mm. and headlamps are clean and working. Safety Assist - Check your vehicle’s Liquids - Make sure the water owner’s manual and find out if it has reservoir is up to the maximum mark. any safety assist technology e.g. ABS. You may also need to top up your Be Prepared - Consider carrying coolant and screen wash. the following: a first aid kit, at least Oil - Check your dipstick and top up 1 high-viz vest or jacket (fluorescent the oil if necessary. Look for signs of and reflective), at least 1 red warning leakages on the ground under the car. triangle and a torch. Electrics - Check your dashboard Further information on being prepared before and after starting the engine. for emergencies when taking to the road, Listen for a weak battery and replace including guidance on vehicle maintenance if necessary. and repair, and vehicle safety checks can be found on the RSA website www.rsa.ie 24
Be Firewise KNOW THE RISKS Be aware of the risk of fire during Spring and Summer drought periods. Fire risk is typically greater in Spring than Summer. Types of land most prone to wildfires in Ireland include peatlands, turf cutting bogs, upland areas and immature forest lands adjacent to these. In extreme drought conditions, vegetation fires can take place in dried grasses and other crops across a range of farmland types, even in lowland areas. Prolonged Spring drought Active farming, appropriate livestock grazing and other fuel reduction conditions can facilitate wildfires measures can reduce the risk of which can threaten rural fire effectively. communities and devastate upland Fire Danger Notices are issued to habitats. Most wildfires in Ireland advise land managers of prevailing fire risk conditions between March and are a result of human activities September and to allow preparedness and are therefore avoidable. measures to be taken in time. During fire-fighting operations do not fly drones in the vicinity of fires or firefighting operations, as doing so could pose severe safety risks to aerial operations, flight crews and individuals on the ground. Drones flying in the vicinity of aircraft present a serious hazard and can hamper firefighting efforts. 25
Further information on Restrictions on Cutting Hedgerows and Burning is available at: www.npws.ie/legislation/irish-law/restrictionscutting-hedgerows PROTECT YOUR HOME BE FIREWISE ON THE FARM Ensure that hazardous flammable Many Spring wildfires arise from poorly vegetation such as gorse, bracken and conducted attempts at controlled burning in grasses are maintained at low levels the uplands. In extreme drought conditions, to reduce fire risk. unintentional fires can also affect lowland A minimum of 30m of fuel-free farming activities and potentially impact on space should be maintained to surrounding communities: protect structures. Obey the Law: Unless otherwise Keep access routes clear. directed by the Minister under Identify water sources, hydrants and Section 7(1) of the Heritage Act, open water sources and keep these 2016, it is an offence to cut, grub, free from obstructions. burn or otherwise destroy any Assist older or vulnerable neighbours to vegetation growing on any land not manage risks and maintain vegetation then cultivated between March and at a safe level around their properties. 31 August in any year as per requirements of the Wildlife Report any suspicious activity to An (Amendment) Act, 2000. Garda Siochana, and uncontrolled or unattended fires immediately to the Landowners found burning illegally Emergency Services via 112 or 999. could face fines, imprisonment and Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) penalties. COUNTRYSIDE USERS Landowners wishing to carry out prescribed burning during the legal Do not light fires in or near forests, period must notify in writing all forest recreational areas or other amenities. owners within one mile and the Fire Park responsibly, do not block Service and local Garda station in emergency access routes. advance of the burning operation. Obey all signage and instructions from Consider smoke impacts on adjacent landowners and authorised officers. communities. If in doubt, don’t burn. Plan for the likelihood of fire and prepare escape routes and assembly points for workers operating equipment in the event of fire. Keep water tankers to hand throughout harvesting operations during drought conditions. 26
Further information on fire management and wildfire protection is available at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/642e6-forestry BARBECUE SAFETY ADVICE FORESTS Outdoor activities are often a great way to Forest owners and managers should spend your leisure time but they have their consider the fire mitigation measures that own set of unique fire risks that should not they can put in place to help prevent loss be underestimated. or damage to forest resources and habitats through fire: A barbecue should be a safe and enjoyable experience but it is all too easy to be Risk assessment: Assess your distracted when you have friends and family property with regard to fire risk and around you whilst cooking. To avoid injuries, mitigation factors. or damage to property, follow these Prepare: Fire Plans should be simple precautions: developed for all forests. Never BBQ on a balcony. Be vigilant: Forest owners should Make sure your barbecue is in good be particularly vigilant following working order. prolonged dry spells. See www. teagasc.ie/crops/forestry/forest- Ensure the barbecue is on a flat site, fire-risk for current Forest Fire well away from the house/apartment, Risk Condition rating. trees or shrubs. Cooperate: Cooperation between Keep children, garden games and pets neighbouring landowners is critical well away from the cooking area. to successful fire prevention. Forest Never leave the barbecue unattended. owners should cooperate with neighbours in relation to fire Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby planning and share the burden of for emergencies. fire patrols and vigilance. Never barbecue in parks, Report fires immediately: If you see a wildland areas or any site in close fire, do not delay; report it to the proximity to vegetation, trees etc. Fire and Emergency Services straight Ensure the barbecue is cool before away via 112 or 999. Do not wait for attempting to move. somebody else to make the call. Report all losses; If your forest is damaged or destroyed, report this loss as soon as possible to the Gardai and the Department of Agriculture. 27
Military Ranges MILITARY FIRING RANGES - WARNING If you are hill walking in the countryside please watch out for the special signs indicating Military Range Lands. Do not walk onto these ranges as you could be in GREAT DANGER at all times from unexploded shells and other dangerous ammunition. RED FLAGS indicate LIVE FIRING. If you are visiting the Glen of Imaal, Co Wicklow, you can get further information, including free maps of the area, by contacting: Army Range Warden Service, Seskin School, Glen of Imaal Tel: (045) 404653 Watch out for the warning signs AND TAKE CARE! 28
For more information on being SunSmart visit www.hse.ie/sunsmart/ Health Preparedness EUROPEAN HEALTH SKIN CANCER INSURANCE CARD Skin cancer is the most common type Make sure you obtain your free European of cancer in Ireland, accounting for over Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you 13,000 cases annually. The number of go abroad. EHIC allows you get necessary people being diagnosed with skin cancer healthcare when on a temporary stay is rising rapidly, with figures set to nearly in another EU or European Economic triple by 2045. Yet most skin cancers can Area (EEA) State or Switzerland on the be preventable. Skin cancer develops when same basis, and cost, as a resident of that cells are damaged and grow uncontrollably. State. In some States this may be for free, Exposure to UV rays, from the sun or or at a reduced cost. sunbeds, is the most common cause of skin cancer. UV radiation from the sun is You need a card for each member of your measured using a UV index –this is highest family. It’s free and there’s no charge to in Ireland between April and September apply. Once you apply the card takes about even on cloudy days. Stay safe by limiting ten working days to arrive. time in the sun when UV is strongest, typically between the hours of 11am to 3pm. You are at higher risk if you spend a lot of time outdoors, due to your work or leisure activities. It is particularly important to protect the vulnerable skin of babies and young children. Children’s skin is very sensitive to UV from the sun. You’ll find full details of how to apply for a EHIC on www.hse.ie 29
Know the UV index: In Ireland, the UV Slip on Clothing: Cover skin as radiation levels are high from April to much as possible, wear long sleeves, September, even when it is cloudy. collared t-shirts, clothes made from Stay safe by limiting time in the sun close-woven material that does not when UV is strongest, typically between allow sunlight through. the hours of 11:00am-3:00pm. Slap on a wide brimmed hat: Slop on sunscreen. Use factor 30 Protect your face, ears and neck. for adults and 50 for kids. Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor Seek shade: Especially if outdoors (SPF) of at least 30+ for adults and 50+ between 11am and 3pm, and always for children, with high UVA protection, use a sunshade on a child’s buggy. and water resistant. Reapply regularly, No sunscreen can provide 100% Slide on sunglasses: Guard protection, it should be used alongside your eyes from harm by wearing other protective measures such as sunglasses with UV protection. clothing and shade. Do not deliberately try to get a suntan. Avoid getting a sunburn. Never use a sunbed. TIPS TO KEEP YOUR HEAT AND HEAT WAVE ENVIRONMENT COOL Extreme heat can cause exhaustion, Keep your living space cool. This is heat stroke and aggravate pre-existing especially important for infants, health conditions. The very young, the the elderly or those with chronic elderly, people with underlying medical health conditions or those who can’t conditions and the seriously ill are groups look after themselves. who are particularly at risk of health Keep windows that are exposed problems when temperatures increase. to the sun closed during the day, Never leave children alone in hot vehicles. and open windows at night when High night-time temperatures in summer the temperature has dropped. (>15°C), can be more impactful, especially on the vulnerable, than high daytime Close curtains that receive morning temperatures. Protect yourself and or afternoon sun. children by being SunSmart as part of Turn off non-essential lights and your daily routine from April – September. electrical equipment - they will generate heat. 30
People with Disabilities GENERAL ADVICE Keep out of the sun at times advised by Met Éireann. Drink enough water. Staying hydrated is essential, but drinking too much tea or coffee is actually counterproductive. Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes and a hat for shade. Wear wrap-around sun glasses with UV protection. Wear sun protection factor 30 or over with a 4 or 5 Star UVA rating. Many prescription medicines can reduce tolerance of heat. Keep taking This is advice that could apply your medicines, but take extra care to keep cool. to anyone, however, it contains Danger symptoms to watch out for in certain, extra elements that hot weather include feeling faint and may be relevant to persons dizzy, shortness of breath, vomiting, with disabilities. If possible, or increasing confusion. make yourself aware of a relative Take immediate action if danger symptoms of heatstroke are present. or neighbour’s disability and ask Cool down as quickly as possible. them how best you can help However do not take aspirin or them if required. Arrange regular paracetamol – this can make you worse. Do, however, carry on taking visits or phone calls at times of all other prescribed medicines. severe weather. Store medicines as per instructions on the packaging. 31
Seek medical advice if you are If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have suffering from a chronic condition a speech impairment register for the or taking multiple medications. Emergency Call Answering Service 112 Try to get help if you feel dizzy, weak, Text Service; you may need to contact anxious or have intense thirst and the emergency services. headache; move to a cool place and If you have a guide/assistance dog measure your body temperature. Drink make sure your dog keeps cool and some water or fruit juice is adequately hydrated. to rehydrate. Rest immediately in a cool place if SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH you have painful muscular cramps DISABILITIES WHO MAY (particularly in the legs, arms or REQUIRE ASSISTANCE abdomen) and drink oral rehydration Keep a closer eye on a person with solutions containing electrolytes. a cognitive impairment as they may Seek medical attention as needed if not be able to communicate distress. heat cramps last more than one hour. In some cases, they may not even Contact your doctor or a pharmacist if “feel” the heat or discomfort. you are worried about your health Ensure that they have sufficient during a heat wave, especially if you supplies of food and medications. are taking medication, if you feel Ensure that they have access to unwell or have any unusual symptoms. power and water. Watch for feelings of mild confusion, If you have any doubts about the weakness or problems sleeping. safety of someone you know who has If you have a respiratory condition pay a disability seek the assistance of the close attention to pollen count Garda Síochána or local health and warnings from Met Éireann. social services. Seek advice on whether being in a building with air conditioning could aggravate a respiratory condition. Booklet Audio File available at: www.gov.ie/summerready 32
The Workplace The Health and Safety Authority The main cause of skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. is responsible for regulating Outdoor workers are at an increased the health and safety of risk of skin cancer as the nature of their workers in all workplaces, occupation exposes them to UV radiation from the sun. Outdoor workers can be whether indoors or outdoors. exposed to between 2-3 times more UV than indoor workers. It is good for general health to enjoy the outdoors. We just need to think about During the summer it requires employers how we protect our skin when outside. to ensure that indoor workers are provided with a well ventilated and comfortable working area. For those who have to work outdoors, they must be protected from the effects of excessive sunlight as set out below. There is no maximum working USEFUL SITES temperature set in legislation for working whether indoors or outdoors. Irish Cancer Society www.cancer.ie It is a legal requirement for all those SunSmart for Outdoor Workers who work outdoors to be protected from www.hse.ie/sunsmart the effects of excessive sunshine while working, so employers are required to EU Health Program have safety measures in place to protect www.skinmama.eu their employees. Sun Safety at Work Canada www.sunsafetyatwork.ca SunSmart Australia www.sunsmart.com.au/advice- for/workplaces www.met.ie 33
EMPLOYER PROTECTIVE MEASURES There are a range of protective measures Encourage employees to cover skin, as follows: keep clothing on with sleeves down and collars up, a wide brimmed Between April and September, hat and wrap around sunglasses, plan outdoor work to limit duration wear clothing made from close-woven and intensity of employee exposure material that does not allow sunlight to direct sunlight, especially between through. 11am and 3pm, when sun rays are Provide sun screen, broad-Spectrum most intense. (UVA/UVB) SPF of at least 30+. The UV index can be checked at Provide wraparound sunglasses. www.met.ie/uv-index Self-employed workers must provide Skin should be protected when their own safety measures. the UV index is above 3. Give information to employees Provide shade if possible. about dangers of sun exposure. Ensure breaks are taken out of Inform employees how to protect direct sunlight. their skin. For information on how employers and employees can work together to protect themselves from UV go to www.hse.ie/sunsmart 34
You and Your Farm STAY SAFE LOOKING AFTER OTHERS. Farming is a high risk occupation and it is Children should always be supervised even more so when extremes of weather on farms. arrive. Farmers should plan in order to Visitors (including family relatives) minimise the effects of extremely hot may not be familiar with a farm weather on your farm and your family. environment and should be accompanied when out on the farm. LOOK AFTER YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY LOOKING AFTER LIVESTOCK Always tell someone when and where Ensure your animals have sufficient you are going out on the farm, and for reserves of water and fodder at how long you will be gone. all times. Wear suitable clothing and appropriate Ensure your animals have sufficient personal protective equipment (even if shelter/shade. it is uncomfortable in hot weather). Be mindful of the weather conditions Reduce your risk of skin cancer when transporting animals. by protecting your skin from UV Have a plan to deal with a rays, particularly between April power outage. and September. You can get more information from: Carry a charged mobile phone and www.gov.ie/en/publication/e881c- drinking water. animal-welfare The Department of Agriculture has a dedicated helpline and email address to report incidents of animal cruelty: Animal Welfare Helpline 01 607 2379 Email: animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie 35
BE SUMMER-READY ELECTRICITY Get a copy of the booklet “Farm Well.... Farm Safely” from the ESB Networks website www.esb.ie It tells you all you need to know about using electric equipment on your farm: Special regulations apply to the connection and use of generators. The connection must be installed by a qualified electrician. ESB must be notified of proposed operation of a generator. Incorrect connection can cause a ‘back- feed’ posing a risk to yourself, other consumers and maintenance staff. OTHER HAZARDS Don’t let anyone inexperienced use machinery. Ensure that equipment/machinery has been serviced properly and is in good working order. Be careful when using equipment which you may not have used for some time. Do not “Risk It” - if you do not know how to use the equipment get someone to advise you or find out how to use it safely. Particular care is needed while using chainsaws - see the leaflet “Chainsaw Safety Training Advice” on the HSA website www.hsa.ie 36
Visit Met Éireann weather warnings website at www.met.ie/warnings/ Schools Most schools use a text messaging service to communicate with parents and staff. Local radio, the school’s website or social media may also be useful to advise parents and students of any issues that may arise that could prevent schools from opening. WEATHER WARNINGS FROM MET ÉIREANN Schools should monitor weather forecasts in order to be prepared for any severe weather which may affect the school during the summer. During periods of severe weather school authorities should keep themselves informed and assess the situation. Schools should ensure they have Be sure to sign up for weather warnings the relevant contact details of the push notifications for your county via the principal response agencies for Met Éireann App their area, including An Garda Síochána, fire brigade and local SCHOOLS AND WATER USAGE authorities and other appropriate As the academic year comes to an end, services. Schools should also have Irish Water asks all schools and colleges to contact details for the transport assess their water usage and check for leaks and to support water conservation efforts. services serving their school. 37
BE SUMMER-READY Contact Information EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have an emergency please phone the emergency services at 112 or 999, or Use Marine VHF Channel 16. In the event of any emergency on water, including offshore, along the coastline, on inland waterways, lakes or rivers call 112 or 999, or Use Marine VHF Channel 16 and ask for the Coast Guard. Remember to have phone numbers for your doctor, chemist, children’s schools, local authority, Garda station, service providers and family members conveniently to hand so that you can locate them easily should an emergency arise. 999 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 * 0 # 38
SERVICES TRANSPORT ESB Networks LoCall During periods of disruption, the individual 1800 372 999 transport provider sites are updated on a continuous basis. Gas Networks Ireland LoCall 1800 20 50 50 The following are contact details for Public Transport providers. You should also keep Irish Water LoCall to hand contact information for your local 1800 278 278 private transport operators. WEATHER FORECAST RAIL Met Éireann’s weather forecasts and Iarnrod Éireann including warnings are available on www.met.ie Intercity/Dart/Commuter Rail: and on the Met Éireann App, where you Customer Service Number can search for detailed 7-day forecasts 01 836 6222 for over 1,200 named locations around LoCall 0818 366222 Ireland and optionally get a geo-located forecast for your location. The Rainfall Website: www.irishrail.ie Radar is also available there - zoom in to Twitter: @irishrail see the latest rainfall in a local area. Facebook: /iarnrodeireann Tune in to the weather forecast on RTÉ Luas Services after the News, and on national and local Luas Customer Care radio hourly news bulletins. Follow LoCall 0818 300 604 @meteireann on twitter for regular or 01 4614911. weather & warning updates’ Outside ROI: +353 1 4614911 Website: www.luas.ie HSE INFORMATION Twitter: @luas You can find the latest HSE advice and Facebook: /luas information from the following sources: Phone HSELive and speak to one of our agents on 1800 700 700 Twitter: @HSELive Website: hse.ie 39
For the most current contact information for your local Bus Station, please refer to the ‘Bus Station Information’ section of the Bus Eireann website at https://buseireann.ie/inner.php?id=373 BUS BUS ÉIREANN TRAVEL CENTRES Dublin Bus Services: LOCATION COUNTER SERVICES Phone Number: (01) 8734222 Ballina MON-THURS: Website: www.dublinbus.ie Kevin Barry St. 0900-1300 & 1400-1715 FRIDAY: Twitter: @dublinbusnews 0900-1300 & 1400-1700 Facebook: /dublinbusnews Cavan MON-SUN: Bus Éireann Services Farnham St. 0700-1800 (Intercity/Commuter): Cork MON-FRI: Phone Number: 0818 836 611 Parnell Place 0900-1730 Outside ROI: +353 1 836 6111 Dundalk MON-SAT: Email: customercare@buseireann.ie Long Walk 0700-1630 Website: www.buseireann.ie SUNDAY: 0800-1630 Twitter: @buseireann Galway MON-FRI: Facebook: /buseireann Ceannt 0900-1300 & 1400-1700 Station, SATURDAY: Go Ahead Ireland Services: Eyre Square 1030-1630 Phone Number: 0818 804 071 Letterkenny MON-FRI: Website: www.goaheadireland.ie Port Road 0900-1345 & 1445-1800 Twitter: @GoAheadIreland Facebook: /goaheadireland12 Limerick MON-FRI: Colbert Station, 0900-1300 & 1400-1730 Local Link Services: Parnell St. Website: Monaghan MON-SUN: www.transportforireland.ie/tfi-local-link North Road 0700-2000 Services are operated and managed Sligo MON-FRI: by local offices throughout the country. Lord Edward St. 0830-1700 Visit www.transportforireland.ie/support/ Tralee your-tfi-local-link-office/ MON-FRI: Casement 0830-1300 & 1345-1630 for contact information for services Station in your area. Waterford MON-FRI: The Quay 0930-1645 Ticket vending machines Dublin (Busáras, Store Street) Killarney (Fairhill) 40
For the most current contact information for your local School Transport office please refer to the ‘School Transport’ section of the Bus Eireann website at https://buseireann.ie/inner.php?id=256 BUS ÉIREANN SCHOOL TRANSPORT OFFICES FOR SERVICES IN COUNTIES CONTACT OFFICE PHONE NUMBERS (021) 455 7137 Cork Capwell, Cork (021) 455 7129 Clare Limerick Roxboro Road, Limerick (061) 217484 Tipperary North Dublin Regional School Kildare Transport Office, Area (01) 830 2222 Wicklow Office, Broadstone, Meath Dublin 7 Louth Bus Station Dundalk Monaghan (042) 682 5900 Long Walk, Dundalk Cavan Westmeath Longford Station Road, Offaly (090) 647 3277 Athlone Roscommon Laois Kevin Barry Street, Mayo (096) 71816 Ballina Ceannt Station, Eyre Galway (091) 537530 Square, Galway Sligo Lord Edward Street, (071) 916 0440 Leitrim Sligo Donegal Stranorlar (074) 913 1008 Waterford Tipperary South Plunkett Station, Carlow (051) 873401 Waterford Kilkenny Wexford Casement Station, Kerry (066) 716 4750 Tralee 41
AIR Arrivals/Departure Information is available at the airport websites: AIRPORT WEBSITE PHONE NUMBERS www.dublinairport.com Dublin Airport (01) 814 1111 Twitter: @dublinairport www.corkairport.com Cork Airport (021) 431 3131 Twitter: @corkairport www.shannonairport.com Shannon Airport (061) 712000 Twitter @shannonairport Ireland West www.irelandwestairport.com (094) 936 8100 Airport Knock Twitter: @Irelandwest www.kerryairport.com Kerry Airport (066) 976 4644 Twitter: @kerryairport www.donegalairport.ie (074) 954 8284 Donegal Airport Twitter: @DonegalA (074) 954 8232 www.aerarannislands.ie Aer Arann Islands (091) 593034 Twitter: @AerArann Please consult www.dfa.ie/travel for travel advice to help you make an informed decision before traveling to other countries. 42
SEA Arrivals/Departure Information is available at the Ferry Operator websites: FERRY SERVICES Brittany Ferries: Website: www.brittanyferries.ie Twitter: @BrittanyFerries Phone: (021) 4277801 Irish Ferries: Website: www.irishferries.com Twitter: @Irish_Ferries Phone: 0818 300 400 P&O Ferries: Website: www.poferries.ie Twitter: @POferriesupdate Phone: (01) 6869467 StenaLine: Website: www.stenaline.ie Twitter: @StenaLineUKIE Phone: (01) 907 5477 43
CITY AND COUNTY COUNCILS COUNCIL WEBSITE PHONE NUMBERS OUT OF OFFICE HOURS OFFICE HOURS Carlow Co. www.carlow.ie (059) 917 0300 (059) 917 0300 Cavan Co. www.cavancoco.ie (049) 437 8300 (049) 437 8300 Clare Co. www.clarecoco.ie (065) 682 1616 087 416 9496 Cork Co. www.corkcoco.ie (021) 427 6891 (021) 480 0048 Cork City www.corkcity.ie (021) 492 4000 (021) 496 6512 Water: 1800 278 278 Donegal Co. www.donegal.ie (074) 915 3900 Roads: (074) 917 2288 Dublin City www.dublincity.ie (01) 222 2222 (01) 679 6186 Dun Laoghaire / www.dlrcoco.ie (01) 205 4700 (01) 677 8844 Rathdown Fingal Co. www.fingalcoco.ie (01) 890 5000 (01) 890 5000 Galway Co. www.galway.ie (091) 509 000 (091) 509 069 Galway City www.galwaycity.ie (091) 536 400 (091) 536 400 Kerry Co. www.kerrycoco.ie (066) 718 3500 (066) 718 3588 www.kildare.ie/ Kildare Co. (045) 980 200 1800 800 444 countycouncil Kilkenny Co. www.kilkennycoco.ie (056) 779 4000 0818 399 399 Laois Co. www.laois.ie (057) 866 4000 (057) 866 4000 Leitrim Co. www.leitrimcoco.ie (071) 962 0005 (071) 962 0005 Limerick City www.limerick.ie (061) 496 000 (061) 417 833 & Co. Longford Co. www.longfordcoco.ie (043) 334 3300 1800 211 525 Louth Co. www.louthcoco.ie 042 933 5457 042 933 5457 Mayo Co. www.mayococo.ie (094) 906 4000 (094) 903 4706 44
COUNCIL WEBSITE PHONE NUMBERS OUT OF OFFICE HOURS OFFICE HOURS Meath Co. www.meath.ie (046) 909 7000 1800 445 335 Monaghan: 087 650 833 Carrickmacross / Castleblayney: Monaghan Co. www.monaghan.ie (047) 30 500 087 687 3154 Ballybay /Clones: 087 204 1672 Monaghan Town: 087 242 4222 Offaly Co. www.offaly.ie (057) 934 6800 1800 750 750 www.roscommon Roscommon Co. (090) 663 7100 (090) 663 7100 coco.ie Roads (Town): 087 2600111 County: Sligo Co. www.sligococo.ie (071) 911 1111 087 7789935 Water/Waste: 1800 278 278 South Dublin Co. www.sdcc.ie (01) 414 9000 (01) 457 4907 Roads / Housing: 0818 06 5003 Tipperary Co. www.tipperarycoco.ie 0818 06 5000 Water: 1800 278 278 Waterford City www. 0818 10 20 20 0818 10 20 20 & Co. waterfordcouncil.ie www.westmeathcoco. Westmeath Co. (044) 933 2000 (044) 933 2000 ie Wexford Co. www.wexfordcoco.ie (053) 919 6000 (053) 919 6000 (01) 291 6117 Wicklow Co. www.wicklow.ie (0404) 20 100 Water/Waste Emergencies: 1800 278 278
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS EIRCODE: DOCTOR: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) VETERINARY SURGEON: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) DENTIST: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) NEIGHBOUR: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) OTHER EMERGENCY CONTACT: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) CHEMIST: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) SCHOOL: (Name) (Phone) (Alt Phone) GARDA SÍOCHÁNA: 999 or 112 (Alt Phone) FIRE/AMBULANCE 999 or 112 (Alt Phone) SERVICE/COAST GUARD SERVICE PROVIDERS Gas (Phone) (Alt Phone) Electricity (Phone) (Alt Phone) Water (Phone) (Alt Phone) City/County Council (Phone) (Alt Phone) 46
Notes 47
DEVELOPED BY THE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY PLANNING IN ASSOCIATION WITH: All Government Departments An Garda Síochána Bus Éireann Environmental Protection Agency Óglaigh na hÉireann The contents of these pages are provided Health and Safety Authority as an information guide only. They are Health Service Executive intended to enhance public access to Irish Coast Guard information for preparing and dealing with events during the summer. While every Irish Water effort is made in preparing material for Met Éireann publication no responsibility is accepted National Disability Authority by or on behalf of the Government Task Office of Public Works Force on Emergency Planning or the Office of Emergency Planning for any errors, Road Safety Authority omissions or misleading statements on Teagasc these pages or any site to which these Water Safety Ireland pages connect. 48
You can also read